Recurrent Temporomandibular Joint Dislocations in Geriatric Patient on Antipsychotic Drugs and Its Conservative Management

Abstract

Recurrent temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocation can cause difficulty in swallowing and speech hence can be distressing for the patient. A 79-year-old male patient reported with recurrent dislocation of TMJ since 2 months. He was on antipsychotic medication for schizophrenia which predisposes to recurrent TMJ dislocation due to oromandibular dystonia. Since the patient had undergone tracheostomy, his systemic condition was not suitable for surgical management. Thus a conservative option of chin cup was planned. The chin cup limits the movement of the mandible hence prevents dislaocation of the TMJ. The patient was successfully rehabilitated with no new episodes of TMJ dislocation for the last 4 months. It focuses on conservative management of recurrent TMJ dislocations induced by antipsychotic drugs.